Football pundits were left 'staggered' after Newcastle United were denied what many described as a 'stonewall penalty' in a dramatic Premier League clash with Chelsea at St James' Park on Saturday 20 December 2025.
The Controversial Incident
The flashpoint occurred with Newcastle leading 2-1 when forward Anthony Gordon received the ball in the Chelsea penalty area. As Gordon attempted to shield the ball near the byline, Chelsea defender Trevoh Chalobah barged into him, sending the Magpies player to the ground.
On-field referee Andy Madley waved play on, a decision that was quickly checked and confirmed by VAR official Peter Bankes. The Premier League's Match Centre later explained the contact was deemed to be a 'side-to-side in a shielding action' with the ball in playing distance, thus not warranting a spot-kick.
Pundit Reaction: 'A Stonewall Penalty'
The decision provoked immediate and strong criticism from analysts covering the match. On TNT Sports, Ally McCoist did not mince his words: "I think it's a penalty, I really do. I think he's trying to usher him out but he takes him out. It's a penalty, as simple as that. It's a stonewall penalty. I'm staggered at that."
His view was echoed by two former Chelsea players. Joe Cole added on TNT: "Too much aggression [from Chalobah], I think we'll be hearing from Eddie Howe after the game." Meanwhile, Pat Nevin told BBC Radio 5 Live: "Risky with bells on it! Trevoh Chalobah never got the ball, a shoulder challenge on Anthony Gordon. A big call for the referee to not give a penalty."
A Pivotal Moment in the Match
The non-call proved to be a major turning point in the frantic fixture. Shortly after the incident, Chelsea raced forward and Joao Pedro scored the equaliser to make it 2-2, a scoreline that held until the final whistle.
The controversial moment has reignited debate over the consistency of VAR decisions in the Premier League, particularly regarding challenges in the penalty area. Newcastle manager Eddie Howe is likely to be questioned extensively about the referee's judgement in his post-match analysis.
